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Boxer vs Golden Retriever vs Maltese

Three friendly breeds enter—one emerges as your best match. Use the trait grids below to spot practical differences in lifestyle fit.

Full body image of a Boxer
size

Boxers are medium to large dogs, weighing 55-70 lbs and standing 21.5-25 inches tall.

energy level

Boxers are energetic, playful, and love engaging in physical activities with their family.

exercise needs

Boxers need daily exercise, such as walks, runs, or playtime to keep them happy and healthy.

trainability

Boxers are intelligent, but their independent nature requires patience and consistency in training.

intelligence

Boxers are quick learners and can excel in obedience training and dog sports.

adaptability

Boxers can adapt to different living situations but thrive in homes with access to outdoor space.

with kids

Boxers are affectionate, patient, and protective, making them wonderful companions for children.

with other pets

Boxers can get along with other pets, especially when properly socialized from a young age.

in cold climates

Boxers can tolerate mild cold but need extra care in extreme cold due to their short coats.

in hot climates

Boxers can handle warm climates, but make sure to provide shade, water, and avoid excessive exercise.

shedding

Boxers have a short coat that sheds moderately, so regular brushing can help minimize shedding.

grooming

Boxers have low grooming needs – occasional brushing and bathing will keep them clean and healthy.

bark tendency

Boxers have average bark tendencies and may bark for various reasons, such as alerting their owners or during playtime.

health issues

Boxers may have some health issues, requiring regular veterinary checkups and preventative care.

Full body image of a Golden Retriever
size

Golden Retrievers weigh 55-75 lbs and stand 21-24 inches tall, boasting a strong and balanced build.

energy level

Goldens are enthusiastic and lively, always up for a game of fetch or a long walk in the park.

exercise needs

Daily exercise like walks, runs, or playtime is essential for a healthy and happy Golden.

trainability

Intelligent and eager to please, Goldens are a dream to train for both first-time and experienced owners.

intelligence

Golden Retrievers are fast learners, excelling in problem-solving and grasping new skills.

adaptability

Goldens adapt well to various living situations, from urban apartments to spacious rural homes.

with kids

Loving and patient, Golden Retrievers are gentle playmates and excellent family dogs.

with other pets

Goldens are sociable and friendly, getting along with other dogs, cats, and even smaller pets.

in cold climates

Their dense double coats help them tolerate cold weather, but they still need warmth and shelter.

in hot climates

Goldens can cope with hot climates, but ensure they have shade, water, and avoid overexertion.

shedding

Goldens shed, especially during seasonal coat changes. Regular grooming helps manage shedding.

grooming

Routine brushing keeps a Golden's coat healthy, tangle-free, and controls shedding.

bark tendency

Golden Retrievers have average bark tendencies and may bark for various reasons, such as alerting their owners or during playtime.

health issues

Golden Retrievers are generally healthy, but regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are still necessary.

Full body image of a Maltese
size

Maltese are toy-sized dogs, weighing 4-7 lbs, with a height of 8-10 inches.

energy level

Maltese have a moderate energy level and enjoy short walks and indoor playtime.

exercise needs

Maltese require minimal exercise, with daily walks and playtime indoors being sufficient.

trainability

Maltese are moderately easy to train, but they may require patience and consistency.

intelligence

Maltese are of average intelligence and can learn new commands with proper training.

adaptability

Maltese are highly adaptable and do well in various living situations, including apartments and houses.

with kids

Maltese are generally okay with kids but are better suited for families with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently.

with other pets

Maltese can get along well with other pets when properly socialized.

in cold climates

Maltese can tolerate some cold weather but should be protected from extreme cold with appropriate clothing and shelter.

in hot climates

Maltese can tolerate hot climates reasonably well but should always have access to shade and water.

shedding

Maltese have minimal shedding due to their long, silky coats.

grooming

Maltese require regular grooming, including daily brushing and occasional trims, to maintain their long coats.

bark tendency

Maltese have average bark tendencies and may bark for various reasons, such as alerting their owners or during playtime.

health issues

Maltese are generally healthy, but regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are still necessary.